Always recognize a good shot and if the spectacular occurs will even break out in polite applause
Have the flagstick already in their hand when the last putt falls, minding the maxim, “First one in, grabs the pin”
Are ready to hit when it’s their play
Walk and carry/pull their clubs so you’re all experiencing ‘the journey of the game’
Search earnestly for your lost ball.
Never take more than five minutes to look for their own lost ball and invariably say, “Thanks, guys, but go ahead and hit your shots.”
At the turn ask, “May I get you anything?”
Pick up your club or towel left on the green while you’re putting out
Utter a brief “thanks” after you say “good shot!”
Kindly remind you to re-mark your coin in the proper spot if it had been moved over to avoid their line.
Invoke the “mercy rule” and not have you suffer a four-putt for a triple bogey.
Welcome into the group a single waiting on the first tee.
Will fix your ball mark without hesitation
Not only won’t complain about another bad break or bounce, but can even laugh about it
Have the good sense not to ask, “What did you have on that hole?” while you’re still digesting an embarrassing ‘circus train wreck’
Go out of their way to grab a rake while you’re hopelessly plugged in the bunker
Ask friendly questions of their playing companions during the course of the round because the social fabric of the game is told in the interrogative not the declarative.
Always buy a round when they’re the big winner of the day
Buy a second round in spite of being the big losers of the day.
Ask at the 19th hole, “Hey, what time are we playing next week and can I pick you up?”
